Addressing party workers, Navin alleged that Congress leaders continue to operate with an “Italian mindset,” a remark widely seen as an indirect reference to senior Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. He claimed that such politics has hindered the country's progress and weakened efforts aimed at ensuring long-term stability and development.

The BJP leader said political parties should focus on national interests rather than what he described as divisive politics. He argued that India’s growth depends on political stability, transparent governance and development-oriented policies.

During his speech, Navin also raised allegations related to the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project, one of Telangana’s largest infrastructure projects. He accused Congress leaders of attempting to shield alleged irregularities linked to the project and claimed that public resources had not been utilized effectively.

The Congress has repeatedly denied allegations of corruption and has often countered similar accusations by targeting both the BJP and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) on governance-related issues. However, Navin used the occasion to reiterate the BJP’s demand for accountability in matters involving public expenditure and infrastructure development.

A significant portion of his address focused on former Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao. Navin alleged that Congress failed to give Rao the respect he deserved despite his contributions to the country. He described Rao as one of India's most influential leaders and argued that his legacy was not adequately acknowledged by his own party.

The remarks are politically significant in Telangana, where Narasimha Rao remains a respected figure. His role in India's economic reforms and national politics continues to hold relevance across party lines.

Navin also questioned the pace of Telangana’s development more than a decade after the state's formation. Telangana was created in 2014 following a prolonged movement for separate statehood, and political parties continue to debate whether the aspirations of the movement have been fully realized.

According to the BJP leader, the state still faces governance challenges that require a new political approach. He alleged that regional and national opposition parties have failed to deliver the level of development expected by citizens and called for greater public support for the BJP.

The BJP leader further accused Congress, the BRS and Asaduddin Owaisi-led AIMIM of engaging in political arrangements that, in his view, prioritize electoral interests over development. The parties involved have previously rejected similar allegations and maintained that their political strategies are aimed at serving the people of Telangana.

Looking ahead to upcoming local body and municipal elections, Navin urged party workers to strengthen the BJP's organizational presence across the state. He called for the establishment of a “double-engine government,” a term frequently used by the BJP to describe governance by the party at both the Centre and the state level.

The BJP has been working to expand its footprint in Telangana, where it sees opportunities to emerge as a stronger political force. Navin told party workers that the goal of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) would require rapid development across all states, including Telangana.

His remarks come at a time when political activity in Telangana is intensifying ahead of future electoral contests, with major parties sharpening their campaigns and positioning themselves around issues of governance, development and regional aspirations.

The Bhopal police administration has been placed on high alert ahead of Friday prayers across the city. Authorities have deployed additional police personnel in sensitive areas and around major mosques to maintain law and order during Jumma namaz gatherings. The heightened security arrangements come in the wake of recent tensions linked to an assault case involving a Muslim youth in the state capital. Officials said police deployment began early Friday morning in several parts of the old city and other sensitive localities. Security arrangements have been intensified as a precautionary measure to ensure peaceful conduct of prayers and prevent any untoward incident.

The development has become a major India News Update as authorities continue monitoring the situation closely after political and community organisations raised concerns regarding the recent incident. According to police officials, additional forces have been stationed near major mosques, including Tajul Masajid, Moti Masjid, Jama Masjid, Kulsum Biya Masjid in Budhwara and mosques located in the Itwara and Peer Gate areas. Security personnel are also carrying out continuous patrolling in nearby localities.

Police officials said Friday prayers in different mosques across the city are scheduled between 12:40 pm and 2:45 pm. Senior officers have been instructed to remain present on the ground during the prayer period to coordinate security arrangements and monitor crowd movement. The security alert follows statements issued earlier this week by AIMIM state president Mohsin Gautam regarding the alleged assault and humiliation of a Muslim youth by members associated with Hindu organisations. The incident reportedly involved physical assault and blackening of the victim’s face.

Mohsin Gautam had demanded immediate arrest of all accused persons and warned of strong protests if action was not taken before Friday. His statement had prompted concerns regarding possible demonstrations following Jumma prayers. Police officials confirmed that action had already been taken in the matter and five accused individuals were arrested and sent to jail. Authorities stated that strict legal measures were initiated immediately after the incident came to light.

Bhopal Police Commissioner Sanjay Kumar said police had acted firmly against the accused and appealed to residents of all communities to maintain peace and avoid responding to rumours or provocative content. The city police chief emphasised that law and order remained under control and warned against attempts to disturb communal harmony. Officials also stated that monitoring of social media platforms has been intensified to prevent circulation of inflammatory or misleading messages.

Meanwhile, Bhopal city Qazi Mushtaq Ali Nadvi released a video appeal urging people to maintain peace and not get influenced by rumours or emotional reactions. He appealed to residents to cooperate with the administration and avoid any activity that could create tension in the city. Community leaders and local residents have also urged people to exercise restraint and allow the legal process to continue. Several organisations appealed for calm and requested citizens not to spread unverified information online.

Authorities said special attention is being given to highly sensitive areas of old Bhopal, where large gatherings are expected during Friday prayers. Police teams equipped with communication and crowd-control equipment have been deployed strategically in these areas. Officials stated that surveillance through CCTV cameras and field monitoring is also being carried out at several locations to ensure quick response in case of any disturbance. Senior administrative officers are reportedly in constant touch with police officials regarding developments on the ground.

The recent incident and subsequent security arrangements have triggered widespread discussion across Bhopal, especially on social media platforms. Residents expressed concern regarding communal tension and called for strict action against those attempting to disturb public peace.

Law enforcement agencies said their primary focus remains maintaining communal harmony and ensuring that Friday prayers are conducted peacefully without disruption. Political observers believe the administration’s proactive deployment reflects an effort to avoid escalation of tension in the state capital. Similar preventive security measures have often been adopted in Bhopal during sensitive situations involving religious gatherings or public protests.

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AIMIM president and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi has launched a sharp attack on Aditya Dhar’s blockbuster Dhurandhar 2, dismissing the Ranveer Singh-starrer as “three hours of nonsense” and accusing it of promoting violence. Speaking at a news summit on Friday, Owaisi questioned the film’s content and its portrayal of community identities.

When asked about the Dhurandhar franchise, Owaisi responded in a mix of Hindi and Urdu, saying, “Picture hai vo? Teen ghante bakwaas (Is that even a film? It’s three hours of nonsense).” He added that he does not have time to watch a three-hour film and questioned what the movie offered beyond expletives and violence.

Owaisi Questions Film’s Intent

The parliamentarian went on to allege that the film left viewers with a troubling question. “What is even there in the film other than cuss words, promoting violence, and after three hours, it makes you wonder if you must cuss at Muslims or not,” Owaisi said. His remarks came days after the film’s release on March 19, as it continues to dominate the box office.

When the host noted that the “world is watching” Dhurandhar 2 and responding positively, Owaisi brushed aside the observation with a Hyderabadi idiom. “Hum Hyderabad mai bolte hai ki, pyaare, in cheezon ko dil pe mat lo, murde pe lo. To hum murde pe leke chorr dete hai usko (We have a saying in Hyderabad. Dear, do not take it to heart, take it to the grave. So, we take it to the grave and let it go),” he said.

Film’s Plot and Political Backdrop

The Dhurandhar franchise follows Indian spy Jaskirat Singh Rangi, alias Hamza Ali Mazari, played by Ranveer Singh. The character is sent to Lyari, Pakistan, by IB director Ajay Sanyal (R Madhavan) to infiltrate a Baloch gang and dismantle a terror outfit. The films draw from real-life geopolitical events and have been noted for their layered portrayal of intelligence operations.

The sequel, which sees the return of actors Sara Arjun, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, and Rakesh Bedi among others, has been released in multiple South Indian languages alongside Hindi. The expanded release strategy has contributed to its strong box office performance.

Box Office Success Continues

Despite the criticism, Dhurandhar 2 has maintained a record-breaking run. According to trade figures, the film has collected over ₹715 crore in India and surpassed ₹1128 crore worldwide since its release. The first instalment, released in December 2025, had collected ₹840 crore domestically and over ₹1300 crore globally.

The sequel is now on track to outperform the original, making it the highest-grossing Hindi film of 2026 so far. The production is backed by Jyoti Deshpande and Aditya and Lokesh Dhar under Jio Studios and B62 Studios.

Political Reactions and Public Discourse

Owaisi’s remarks add a political dimension to the film’s ongoing box office success. While the filmmaker and lead cast have not responded to the criticism, the controversy has sparked debate on social media, with supporters and detractors of the film weighing in on its portrayal of community dynamics.

Industry observers note that political reactions to mainstream films are not uncommon, particularly when storylines intersect with real-world geopolitical themes. The Dhurandhar franchise, with its focus on cross-border intelligence operations, has drawn both acclaim for its craft and scrutiny for its political undertones.

What’s Next

With the film still in theatres and its box office momentum showing no signs of slowing, the makers are yet to announce any official response to the criticism. Meanwhile, trade analysts expect Dhurandhar 2 to continue its record run through the coming weeks, with potential expansion into additional international markets.